FHP looks to Colorado for guidance on pot laws

ORLANDO, Fla. (WOFL FOX 35) - Florida Highway Patrol is reacting to the prospect of medical marijuana users behind the wheel. The agency sent DUI experts to meet with police in Colorado, where even recreational pot is now legal.

“Wondering what happened when that state approved the use of it, to see if their crash rate went up,” said Florida Highway Patrol Sgt. Kim Montes about the trip.

According to an AAA study, the percentage of drivers involved in fatal crashes who had recently used marijuana more than doubled in Washington state after recreational marijuana was legalized there.

Troopers in Florida say they’re not sure what to expect once more people can get a prescription, but there is concern some will abuse it.

“The legality part of the marijuana is then justified, but somebody can still be charged with DUI if they're operating the vehicle under the influence of marijuana,” Montes explained.

With alcohol, you’re considered drunk if your blood alcohol level exceeds .08. We’re told there’s no set number for marijuana use.

Attorney Jordan Ostroff says that could create courtroom confusion.

“As a defense attorney, as a person in central Florida, I would want a hard number based on science. I don't know how they're going to get to that but right now there's no number period,” Ostroff said.